Choosing a university is no easy task. It's one that requires deliberate thought and planning. You want a graduate program that will help you achieve your goals—nothing less will do.

There are a variety of qualities you should consider when making your choice, including academic offerings, the program's reputation, financial aid options, and campus features. Naturally, some of these qualities may be more or less important to you, depending on what you are hoping to accomplish.

Over the summer and early fall of 2013, six graduate students at The University of Tampa (UT) conducted a research study to find what students deemed most important when searching for a graduate business program. The survey, sent to more than 4,000 applicants at various stages of the admissions process, revealed some interesting information.

According to Diane Dean, author of Generation on a Tightrope: A Portrait of Today’s College Student, the primary reason today’s youth is in school is to “get training and skills that will lead to a job, and let them make money.” This is no surprise. With the most recent economic downturn, many students experienced or witnessed financial hardship. This was an impactful lesson learned that now guides priorities. That's why it makes sense that the top four reasons respondents were interested in graduate studies relate to their short- and long-term career goals.

When the UT team asked respondents what the primary motivation was in pursuing a graduate business program, the top four reasons were to:

Advance their professional career

Develop business skills

Make themselves more marketable

Expand their professional network

This theme carried throughout the survey. The top two reasons in choosing a school were reputation and location. While not immediately clear, the reputation of the school has a lot to do with the quality—and number—of the employers that recruit there. In addition, location could be an attribute that describes the types of opportunities available. If the school is located in a metropolitan city, it is more likely to have opportunities and partnerships with employers compared to a school in a more rural location. This even comes into play for the mode of transportation. It makes a big difference when you can find an internship at a company that is within 10 minutes walking distance versus using public transportation for over an hour.

In specific professional development attributes, respondents were looking for programs that offer the strongest post-graduate opportunities. When applying to a graduate school, respondents wanted the school to be open and honest about:

The percentage of graduates receiving job offers

Specific benefits offered by the career services office

List of companies the school has relationships with

Average starting salary of graduates

List of on-campus recruiters

The team's research delved into other areas with significantly more detail, including general factors, campus features, academic criteria, and financial aid opportunities. However, the career-related items were consistently in the spotlight. In a job market that is steadily improving, you need to target degree programs to equip you with the skills to compete with—and in—a global workforce.

What are you searching for in a graduate business program? Share your comments below.

June 18, 2013

As explored in a somewhat recent Wall Street Journal article, "The Diploma's Vanishing Value," the decision to attend college in the United States is more often based on the uncertainty of a degree's immediate return on investment, rather than its life-long value. With "unemployment among college graduates at historic highs and outstanding student-loan debt at 1 trillion USD," U.S. high school students are more often thinking twice about going to college due to economic and financial circumstances (Selingo, 2013).

However, students should try to think about the long-term rewards versus the short-term uncertainities of pursuing a college degree. The U.S. economy will evolve past this period, and it is likely that it will emerge in a slightly different form. For example, after the Great Depression the U.S. economy moved from an agricultural focus to a manufacturing focus. Thus, prospective business students should focus on what the new economy might look like in the future. For instance, in a recent Forbes article, "Is the U.S. in a Phase of Change," innovation and creativity were predicted to be the driving forces of the economy moving forward. Regardless if this prediction is correct or not, employers will most likely continue to trend toward requiring more than a high school or vocational-level education, particularly with significant changes in technology and global marketplaces. Companies will seek innovative employees who have the collegiate-level skills to analyze business analytics, understand business models and how to apply them, and manage product lines effectively and efficently.

However, even with a long-term focus it can be difficult to move past the uncertainity of not having employment after graduation. Try to think about and focus on steps that you can take as a college student to improve your chances of landing a job soon after graduation. For instance, engaging in professional employment while you earn your degree is an important consideration. Today, companies need mature professionals that have a sense of responsibility. Companies want employees who are on time, produce quality work, and act appropriately in a variety of situations. This is why having some professional work experience (such as internships, community projects, consulting projects through your coursework, or small business ventures) on your resume will show employers that you have an idea of what is expected. Secondly, don't discount networking early in your college years, particularly with your professors. Professors often work closely with businesses for research and consulting, meaning they often are contacted about prospective employees. Because of this, it is important to put your best foot forward every time you attend class. Afterall, you never know who may be watching or reviewing your work, and what kinds of opportunities this may lead to.

March 26, 2013

The IESEG School of Management (France), Renmin University of China (China), The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (United States), Universidad ESAN (Peru), and Yeshiva University (United States) are now AACSB-accredited.

The following 68 schools have maintained their AACSB Business and/or Accounting Accreditation:

Maintained Business Accreditation:

Adolfo Ibanez University (Chile)American University (United States)Appalachian State University (United States)Aston University (United Kingdom)California State University, Stanislaus (United States)Clark University (United States)Duke University (United States)Duquesne University (United States)ESCP Europe (France)Fairfield University (United States)Florida Gulf Coast University (United States)Florida International University (United States)Instituto Panamericano de Alta Direccion de Empresa (IPADE) (Mexico)InstitutoTecnológico Autónomo de México (ITAM) (Mexico)Jacksonville State University (United States)King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (Saudi Arabia)Lancaster University (United Kingdom)Louisiana State University in Shreveport (United States)Loyola University New Orleans (United States)Memorial University of Newfoundland (Canada)Minnesota State University, Mankato (United States)Missouri State University (United States)Mississippi State University (United States)Morehouse College (United States)Murray State University (United States)National University of Singapore (Singapore)New Jersey Institute of Technology (United States)North Carolina Central University (United States)Old Dominion University (United States)The Pennsylvania State University at Erie,The Behrend College (United States)The Pennsylvania State University at Harrisburg (United States)

Purdue University (United States)Rice University (United States)Rowan University (United States)San Diego State University (United States)Seoul National University (South Korea)State University of New York College at Plattsburgh (United States)Towson University (United States)Tuskegee University (United States)Universidade Católica Portuguesa (Portugal)University College Dublin (Ireland)The University of Alabama (United States)The University of Arizona (United States)University of California, Irvine (United States)University of Central Florida (United States)University of Colorado at Boulder (United States)The University of Georgia (United States)University of Glasgow (United Kingdom)University of Louisville (United States)The University of Michigan (United States)The University of Michigan-Flint (United States)University of Missouri-Kansas City (United States)University of North Florida (United States)University of Ottawa (Canada)University of Richmond (United States)University of South Florida (United States)University of South Florida St. Petersburg (United States)The University of Texas at Tyler (United States)University of Vermont (United States)University of West Florida (United States)University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (United States)University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (United States)University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (United States)Western Kentucky University (United States)Worcester Polytechnic Institute (United States)

Maintained Accounting Accreditaiton:

Florida International University (United States)Kent State University (United States)Mississippi State University(United States)Old Dominion University (United States)San Diego State University (United States)Texas Tech University (United States)The University of Alabama (United States)The University of Arizona (United States)University of Central Florida (United States)

The University of Georgia (United States)University of Louisville (United States)University of North Florida (United States)University of Richmond (United States)University of South Florida (United States)University of South Florida St. Petersburg (United States)The University of Texas at El Paso (United States)Western Kentucky University (United States)

February 18, 2013

The
task of choosing an MBA concentration may be daunting, especially with the growing number of track choices. But before you choose just any track that looks interesting, keep in mind that your choice should ultimately come down to what you
want to do with your career. For instance, how can having a specific concentration help you gain the job you want following graduation? Will this concentration gain the attention of prospective employers who view your resume? What types of advantages will you have after graduation with the particular concentration?

Depending on how you answer the questions above, you may choose a generic concentration or one that is a more focused option. Today's MBA programs, particularly those at AACSB-accredited schools, offer a wide array of concentration choices. To help you learn more about the unique concentrations that are available (in addition to the traditional concentrations such as accounting, finance, management, and marketing), we've gathered information on several AACSB-accredited schools that offer unique MBA concentrations.

Energy and EnvironmentThe Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, USA

"In this concentration, students will learn about the energy industry, how energy and environmental issues will affect businesses in the future; tools for analyzing energy and environmental problems; and strategies that business can use to succeed in an economy in which energy and environmental issues are much more important than they have been in the past. The variety of business and non-business electives listed below provide the opportunity for a student to choose courses to fit his or her interests, ranging from a focus on specific energy topics to a more general coverage of energy, environment, and sustainability topics."(www.fuqua.duke.edu/student_resources/academics/concentrations/energy_environment/)

Social EntrepreneurshipThe Fuqua School of Business, Duke University

"The Concentration in Social Entrepreneurship is designed for students interested in using their MBA skills in the entrepreneurial pursuit of social impact. MBA skills are seen as valuable and much needed in the social sector, and the core MBA program provides a strong foundation for any student looking to become a successful social sector leader. However, MBAs looking to use their skills and talents for social impact must approach their work thoughtfully, recognizing the unique challenges, opportunities, and qualities associated with trying to create social value. The Social Entrepreneurship Concentration exposes students to the skills, knowledge, and perspectives necessary to pursue social impact entrepreneurially, effectively, and pragmatically. This concentration is designed to serve students who aspire at some point in their lives to be social entrepreneurs, executives in social-purpose organizations, philanthropists, board members, or leading volunteers in their communities and the social sector."(www.fuqua.duke.edu/student_resources/academics/concentrations/social_entrepreneurship/)

Risk ManagementWatson Graduate School of Management, Oklahoma State University

Calculating risk has become a main focus of controlling profit margins, enrolling in a risk management program may help you maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Business IntelligenceWatson Graduate School of Management, Oklahoma State University, USA

This concentration prepares students for jobs in the data analysis, management, statistical methods and financial analysis, and marketing. "The business intelligence concentration requirements will meet requirements for students to earn a SAS certification in data mining, as well as provide a solid general management foundation from the rest of the MBA curriculum."(http://watson.okstate.edu/mba/fulltime/concentrations/bi/)

Telecommunications ManagementWatson Graduate School of Management, Oklahoma State University, USA

Since the Internet became prominent, computing and telecommunications have vastly changed the way people communicate and do business.

"Over the last decade, some of the most exciting advances in healthcare have been the result of pharmaceutical research and development. These life-enhancing discoveries have fueled amazing growth in this multi-billion dollar global industry, creating a new demand for talented, motivated individuals with a special knowledge of the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry.

Latin American BusinessHough Graduate School of Business, University of Florida, USA

"This concentration combines broad international business skills with specific understanding of the economic policies, legal and business structures, and sociocultural traditions that shape the context of Latin American business. Language proficiency in Spanish and/or Portuguese is not required for the concentration, but is strongly recommended for students who subsequently decide to pursue positions in Latin American departments of US firms or in Latin American based industries."(http://floridamba.ufl.edu/traditional/concentrations.asp#LAB)

Security AnalysisHough Graduate School of Business, University of Florida, USA

Asset
Management/Sales and TradingDarden
School of Business, University of Virginia, USA

"This concentration is designed to extend the valuation
principles learned in the first-year curriculum to solve complex problems faced
by asset managers and sales and trading professionals. The courses expose
students to a variety of different financial markets and give students a deeper
understanding for how companies are valued, which are critical components for
either managing a client’s funds or executing security trades." (www.darden.virginia.edu/web/MBA/Academics/Concentrations)

Consumer
MarketingDarden
School of Business, University of Virginia, USA

"This concentration builds on brand management and will
prepare students for careers in organizations where brand leadership is
critical—in traditional consumer packaged goods, consumer durables, consumer
services, consulting firms and even NFPs. This track focuses on the end-user as "customer,"offering the opportunity to gain insight into how customers search
for information, processes that information, make purchase decisions, and
become loyal, engaged consumers."(www.darden.virginia.edu/web/MBA/Academics/Concentrations/)

January 10, 2013

Once
you decide to apply to business school, it is best to check the requirements again
and again. There are many components to consider for both undergraduate and
graduate entry.

The
application process is tough and getting into a great b-school is competitive. Marketing
yourself effectively is an important chunk of the admission process. Research the
key faculty members at the school and tailor your application materials, such
as a statement of intent, personal essay, or an interview to match the
interests of those members and the program as a whole. Do not focus on your
test scores, numbers will speak for themselves. Avoid reiterating what is
listed on your resume. Instead, focus on information that will help the
decision-maker understand why you chose this path and where you want to go from
here. Show them that you want to be involved and excel, not just coast through
classes.

Bloomberg
Businessweek recently performed a Q&A session with the assistant dean of
admissions at Columbia University, an AACSB-accredited school. When asked if
there were tips to help an applicant stand out, the assistant dean mentioned involvement
and participation. Admissions councils avoid potential spectators, while
targeting individuals who are active. Many applications provide a section to
specify activities not listed on the resume. Be sure to let them know you are
well-rounded.

Perhaps
most importantly, be yourself and be personable. There is no one else like you.
This is the easiest way to stand out. Personal qualities set the tone for your
application review because they separate you from candidates with similar
resumes. Be sure to highlight your strengths and leadership qualities.

If
a school requires a score from a standardized admissions test, such as the ACT,
SAT, GMAT, or GRE, take the exam while your math skills are fresh. Do not wait
until the last minute. The test scores are typically good for three to five
years. If you are unsure of attending b-school now or later, it is recommended
you still take the admissions exam—especially the GMAT. Be sure to submit an
unofficial score to the school soon after the test, and follow up with the
official score when it becomes available.

When
deciding on which school is right for you, keep in mind AACSB Accreditation is
one of the most important affirmations of a quality business school. AACSB
business and accounting accreditation represent the highest standard of
achievement for business schools worldwide. Only 5% of schools offering
business degrees worldwide meet the rigorous standards of AACSB Accreditation. The
process confirms that AACSB-accredited schools provide relevant knowledge and
practices, and reflect an understanding of today’s complex business
environment.

Once
you narrow your list of b-schools and begin applying, do not be intimidated by
the process. The application requirements are designed to give the admissions
council insight into what the applicant brings to the table. These councils
look at the whole picture, and not just one aspect of your application. If you
have covered the bases and sent all of the necessary material, you are setting
yourself up for success in b-school. The right school will be happy to have
you.

October 19, 2012

Two common concerns students may have related to attending graduate school are the cost of tuition and job opportunities following graduation. According to CNN Money, the average tuition at public universities during 2011 increased 8.3%, and that only included undergraduates. An option to avoid excess debt can be to pursue a graduate teaching assistantship or TA position. If cost or debt is not a concern for you, an assistantship is still something worth exploring, as it can increase your attractiveness to potential employers. Either way, a teaching assistantship is a great employment option for full-time graduate students.

What does a Graduate Teaching Assistant (TA) Do?

A TA is usually required to work 10 to 20 hours per week. These hours include more than just teaching in a classroom. A TA spends several hours each week grading papers and assignments. An interesting aspect of being a TA is having an opportunity to create a syllabus and set achievement standards for students. In addition to creating materials for class each week, a TA often also will assist a professor with proctoring and grading exams. Even further, students many times look to their TA for guidance and answers to questions that they may not feel comfortable asking their professor.

What are the Benefits? (Compensation + Experience)

It is difficult to list all of the benefits a person may receive from being a TA. The best way to list the perks may be to break them up into two groups: compensation and experience.

A TA's compensation may include a stipend or hourly pay. The stipend or hourly wage may not be a large amount, however it surely helps. Any monetary compensation is always more financially helpful than an unpaid internship. The largest contribution stemming from an assistantship is tuition reimbursement or coverage. Not many perks stack up to having your degree program paid for. This automatically solves the debt problem after graduation. On a smaller note, a TA can take advantage of faculty/staff parking privileges. As any student knows, parking on campus is often difficult.

Experience gained from an assistantship is immeasurable. The more a TA puts into the job, the more he or she gets out of it. The opportunity to network with your professors, guest speakers or anyone else for that matter is immense. The practice speaking in front of large groups is a vital skill for today’s workplace. A TA also gains experience in a management role, something that many young professionals wait years to learn. There also are many practical benefits of becoming a TA outside of teaching. Assistants may see an improvement in their organizational skills, presenting styles, and planning capabilities. Depending on the course taught, a TA also will have opportunities to expand his or her knowledge of course topics through research and working directly with faculty experts.

How Does a TA Position Work?

It is important to understand that every university, department, and school operates differently. Required qualifications and tuition reimbursement policies among programs may not be the same, however; it is important to keep those items in mind when looking for the right opening. In addition to initial qualifications for a TA position, maintenance of certain qualifications throughout the assistantship is required. For example, your number of enrolled hours is important. A TA has to be enrolled in a minimum number of graduate courses to continue as an assistant. As always, a solid GPA is vital as well. Without acceptable grades, the professor or adviser may not see the TA as an adequate representative of the university. The TA’s academic standing also may determine what opportunities he or she may qualify for. The assistant must be available on certain days for the obvious reason of teaching the course. Professors usually meet with their TA’s during the week to discuss lesson plans, assignments, and grading. Lastly, international students’ reimbursement and qualifications may differ from domestic students.

How to Apply?

It is recommended to apply after acceptance into the program, but it is not necessary. Many universities post assistantships similar to other university job opportunity. Some schools have separate listings within each college or department. Speaking with a student adviser to explore the different openings and departmental needs also can be a great place to begin. Once you identify an assistantship, you may likely will be required to complete an application and provide recommendation letters.

GetBschooled is a blog produced by AACSB International—the leading accrediting body for business programs worldwide—for prospective business school students. For more information on business programs and to search only AACSB-accredited schools, visit AACSB's student website: BestBizSchools.com.